Welcomeyall!

NATCHEZ – As temperatures dip and surprise lilies make their colorful debut, Natchez readies to welcome thousands of visitors for Fall Pilgrimage. The fall is the most magical time to visit Natchez. As the trees change color they create a stunning backdrop for our historic Natchez architecture and garden tours. This city is home to more historic homes than any other city of its size in the country. These incredible examples of architecture play a huge role in both the city’s character and charm.

From September 24 through October 21, more than 20 historic homes will open their doors to visitors, sharing the intimacies of the history, antiques, art and gardens to interested visitors.

While individual tours of all houses are available, Natchez Pilgrimage Tours also offers several packages for multi-house options, includ- ing full day packages; morning tour packages; and afternoon packages.

Special ticketed events offered through Natchez Pilgrimage Tours include:

• “A Very Natchez Revue” at Concord Quarters, Sept. 30 and Oct. 1 at 7 p.m. This unique look of the Natchez experience and history is told from the perspective of free African Americans through a series of skits, songs and dance.

• Elms Court: Traditional Natchez Coffee Party, Oct. 22 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Enjoy coffee and locally. Made sweets in the elegant dining room at Elms Court under the punkah and meet the owners while you explore the house and grounds informally and at your own pace.

Tickets for both events are available through Natchez Pilgrimage Tours.

And while the houses are the star of the show during Pilgrimage, a number of special events are also taking place during the Pilgrimage season, including:

• The 37th Annual Natchez Balloon Festival on Oct. 14-16. One of the most popular ballooning events in the country, the festival features a weekend of balloon flights; balloon glows; concerts; festival events; and fun.

• Live at Five free family, friendly outdoor concerts on the Natchez Bluff on October 1, 8, 14, 22 and 29.

• Y’All Means All Natchez – The Weekend on Oct. 21-23. This raucous LGTBQ+ festival celebrates the diversity of Natchez’ community while raising funds for NAMI Four Rivers, a non-profit state advocacy organization dedicated to suicide prevention and mental health counseling.

• Longwood Afternoon Music Fest is Oct. 30. In its seventh year, the festival is full of family fun, groovy tunes, creative crafts and delicious food and drinks. This year’s event also includes a Halloween Carnival.

For more information about purchasing tickets for tours or events, go to natchezpilgrimagetours.com